20 US Colleges that Are Great for International Students

Choosing the right college can be a tough choice and a stressful process for any student, but it certainly can be more complicated for residents of other countries who are interested in coming to the United States to study. Education Insider takes a look at 20 higher education institutions that international students might want to consider.

Schools for International Students

1. The New School

Located in New York, NY, The New School tops U.S. News and World Report's list of schools with the most international students, with 29% of its student population coming from other countries. The school boasts a friendly and welcoming environment for these students, giving information on everything from how to open a U.S. bank account to the culture in New York City. It also has social events, informational workshops on topics like employment regulations, and a mentorship program.

2. University of Arizona

International students who need financial support may be interested in the University of Arizona, which has a scholarship program that could award $2,000-$10,000 per year to international students. It also has a Center for English as a Second Language to help students adjust to a new language and the International Services Center, which helps international students in a variety of areas.

3. Wagner College

There are students from more than 19 countries attending Wagner College. Through the Center for Intercultural Advancement, Wagner offers programs promoting intercultural awareness. The Center also provides support to Wagner's international students to ensure they are comfortable in their host country.

4. University of Michigan's Rackham Graduate School

Students from outside the United States interested in graduate studies could join the other 2,400 international students who enroll annually at the Rackham Graduate School of the University of Michigan. The school has an International Center, which provides support and services to international students in a variety of areas.

5. Illinois Institute of Technology

This higher education institution also ranks high on the U.S. News and World Report list of schools with the most international students, with 23% of its student population hailing from abroad. The Illinois Institute of Technology offers a merit-based scholarship for international students that could be worth as much as $10,000 per year. International students can get support and assistance through the campus International Center.

6. University of South Carolina

At the University of South Carolina, there are a variety of organizations for international students to get involved in, including the Indian Culture Exchange, Egyptian Student Association, International Student Association and Iranian Student Association. These organizations are proof that the university maintains a thriving international student community.

7. Purdue University

More than 8,600 international students chose to study at Purdue University in the 2013-14 school year. The school publishes a quarterly newsletter tailored to the needs of international students, and these students can also meet and foster friendships with domestic students through the International Friendship Program.

8. University of Maryland

There is a large international student population at the University of Maryland - its approximately 4,000 international students come from 137 countries. Many forms of assistance are offered to these students, including help applying to the school and getting a visa.

9. University of Florida

Over 6,000 international students seek their education at University of Florida. The school's International Center helps students with the transition to a new school and country. The center also provides a plethora of services, including information about employment, finances, and visas.

10. University of Central Oklahoma

The University of Central Oklahoma prides itself on the variety of degree programs, safety, class sizes, and tuition costs - all of which are very attractive to the potential international student. Almost 1,600 students from countries outside the U.S. attend the university, which provides financial aid and other services important to its students from abroad.

11. Hawaii Pacific University

Many students would love to study in Hawaii, and surely international students would be no different. There are over 1,000 international students who decide to study at Hawaii Pacific University. These students may qualify for merit scholarships, and tuition can be waived for exchange students from HPU-affiliated schools.

12. University of Tulsa

22% of the students at University of Tulsa come from abroad, according to U.S. News and World Report. The school helps international students in a variety of ways, including completion of immigration papers, selecting a major, and assisting cultural adjustments. Many international student organizations are available as well.

13. Carnegie Mellon University

Having international students is an important part of Carnegie Mellon's plan. Currently, about 18% of the student population hails from abroad, according to U.S. News and World Report.

14. Temple University

Temple University is another higher education institution that provides a great deal of support to its students from other countries. Among the many different supports offered, Temple University hosts the Intensive English Language Program, which provides international students with the opportunity to learn English at all levels.

15. San Francisco State University

About 100 countries are represented by San Francisco State University's 1,500 international students. Scholarships are available to these students, and the school also provides workshops, counseling, and social activities.

16. University of Wisconsin - Madison

International students at the University of Wisconsin - Madison aren't likely to feel alone, since the school has about 4,000 students from 130 countries. Some of the many activities offered to international students are the BRIDGE 'friendship' program, volunteer opportunities, and the Assembly of International Students.

17. Clemson University

Clemson University enrolls about 1,500 international students per year, and they can rest easy knowing they'll get continued support throughout their studies. The school provides regular meetings held either one-on-one or in groups with staff members to ensure international students' success.

18. Marquette University

International students in need of financial assistance should definitely consider Marquette University. According to the school, in the fall of 2010 more than 90% of its international applicants received some sort of scholarship. Students interested in this school can also take advantage of the International Student Network to talk with those who know what it's like to come from a different country to study.

19. University of Mississippi

To help potential and new international enrollees prepare for their college careers, the University of Mississippi provides information on applications, visas, housing, employment and campus resources. Once on campus, students can join a variety of international organizations, including the African Caribbean Association, Cultural Connections Program, International Student Association, Muslim Student Association and Thai Student Organization.

20. University of Delaware

With over 3,500 international students, University of Delaware provides programming that covers topics such as travel, housing, visas, obtaining a driver's license, and volunteering as an interpreter. International students can also be active on campus through student organizations and events.